His eyes lifted toward Ash, "It was you. You drove it back. I owe you my life."
He tried to straighten, but faltered, then realized with a frown, "I never even asked your name."
Kaelen stepped forward from the gathered Kin, his voice clear, "His name is Ash."
Salken blinked, then bowed his head with as much strength as he could muster, "Ash… thank you."
Tholn's gaze flicked between them, his expression thoughtful. Rhavri also stood in silence, her brow furrowed with deep worry.
Finally, Tholn asked, "Sister, Salken… have the beetles always been in those ridges?"
"Not to my knowledge," Salken rasped, "Never have I seen them there."
Rhavri's eyes darkened, "Druven never mentioned such creatures either. This is new."
"Then we must find out more," Tholn decided grimly.
Salken shook his head quickly, fear flashing in his eyes. His hand shot out suddenly, seizing Tholn's wrist as he tried to force himself upright.
